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5 Things to Know for Those Who Want to Teach in Qatar

Dreaming of working overseas? For professionals in the teaching profession, working in a new environment flavoured with cultural variety can spell big challenges, but what doesn’t?

Teachers understand that their profession requires an open mind and a gentle heart to be able to understand the needs of every student that comes into their classroom. This job can be downright tedious and tiring, but what if you get to do this as a passion with great benefits, along with the opportunity for career advancement? This is just what teaching in Qatar could be or you, if it ever crosses your mind to work there…

[Guide] What to Expect as an Expat Teacher in Qatar

In this post, we will share five things to know about working as an expat teacher in the Gulf State. These are general guidelines, which you can expect when working as a school teacher in the country, but again, be sure to check your employment contract for the specifics of your job as well as the benefits that come along with it.

Expat teachers are highly paid in Qatari schools.

As in the case in most countries in the Middle East, international teachers are handsomely paid whether they work in public schools or international private schools, which are quite common in the region. Despite the exciting offer, the cost of living in these places may even it out just a little (if you’re not being careful and frugal).

As there is an abundance of teaching opportunities in the country, one of the first things that you need to consider is to look for a job with the most benefits other than (a nice) salary package.

There is much cultural diversity inside and outside classrooms.

Despite being a small country, Qatar is known to be one of the richest in the world in terms of capita GDP. As such, modernization has quickly caught up with the country’s cultural heritage and colours, threatening to take over much of what has been established of it through the years.

Nevertheless, the country has managed to preserve its cultural heritage, highlighting the significant role religion plays in Qatar’s society. Therefore, as an important tip – be sure to know the do’s and don’ts on how to behave and act appropriately when staying in this country.

Typical weather conditions may pose a challenge.

When working overseas, one of the first adjustments most of us have to make is to be acclimated to our host country’s weather conditions. In Qatar though, it’s important to note that the summer season can be quite brutal. It is for this reason that even nationals go on vacation somewhere else during this period.

As such, working in an environment with good air conditioning system is crucial to one’s stay when in the country. In contrast, the winter period in Qatar is quite wonderful, which allows one to comfortably stroll around and vest the beautiful sceneries in the area.

Exercise caution always.

Based on several research studies and reports, Qatar has been named as one of the safest places in the whole world. However, this does not reduce the need for one to be careful when going out and about, as danger is present everywhere.

Also, it’s important to note that not everything in news accurately portrays everything that is actually happening in society, as the government still has much to say about these things. So for safe measure, it’s important to exercise caution wherever you may be.

There is good expat community support available.

Expats who work as teachers in Qatar automatically become part of a great community of international educators who are always willing to extend their help, whether professionally or socially as you adapt to Qatar’s unique society.

Be sure to take advantage of these group benefits, as the community also organizes regular events (usually on weekends) for staff and to celebrate social festivities.

For those who are looking to build their career in teaching, and if teaching abroad is right on your goals, then give teaching in Qatar a shot – just be sure to consider the above pointers to maximize your experience in the country!

ALSO READ: Here’s What You Need to Know about Qatar’s Social Security System

Do you have a story to share about working or teaching in Qatar? Let us know by leaving a comment in the section below. Your tips and insights will be much appreciated!

Oman Extends Hiring Ban on 4 Professions

As the government’s nationalisation programme pushes full steam ahead, measures that curb or discourage the entry and hiring of expats are to be expected. For the longest time and up to this day, the Sultanate has greatly benefited from the contributions of foreign workers across a number industries and businesses, as well as to its general economic performance.

However, as with the rest of the countries in the Gulf region, dependence of foreign labour proves to be unsustainable and detrimental to the countries’ social systems, which also ultimately affects the citizens of the state. It is for this reason that nationalisation programmes have been introduced in several countries in the Middle East, including Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Oman.

No Hiring of These Professions in Oman for the Next 6 Months

In this regard, His Excellence Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Abdullah al Bakri, Minister of Manpower has issued a decision (No 322/2019) to extend the temporary ban on hiring of expatriates in four professions, as shared in a report by the Muscat Daily.

As such, the Ministry of Manpower (MoM) placed a hiring ban on visas for expatriate carpenters, metallurgy workers, blacksmiths and brick kiln workers for another six months. The decision was put into effect on July 3, and is expected to take effect until early next year.

The Ministerial Decision No 322/2019 was issued on June 25. The ministry had first issued the temporary ban in 2014 (Decision No 122/2014) noting that the hiring ban will apply only to new visas. The decision curbs the hiring of expatriate manpower in private sector firms, to allow more nationals to join the workforce.

However, companies registered as excellent or are of international grade, consultancies and those implementing government projects will not be affected by the measure. It will also not apply to firms that are managed by their owners and registered with Riyada and insured with the Public Authority for Social Insurance.

As of last year, wide demonstrations have been observed in the country due to the high unemployment rate among Omani nationals. In response to this, the Ministry of Manpower has issued three decisions
(487, 488, 489 /2018) that regulate recruitment of expatriate professions.

And as part of the national government’s efforts to address the high unemployment in the Sultanate, government officials announced in December last year that it would begin efforts to create 25,000 new jobs in an effort to reduce high unemployment.

A huge part of the new jobs (60%) are said to come from the public sector, while private sector companies would be provided with incentives to hire nationals instead of expatriates.

ALSO READ: Oman to Introduce Expat Visa Ban for Senior Management Roles

Saudi Offers Permanent Residency for USD 213,000

The Middle East has been known for being extremely conservative on immigration laws, especially those that deal with permanent residency. Ten years ago, gaining permanent residency in countries in the region was not up for any kind of discussion.

However, upon seeing the benefits of acquiring “high-profile” foreign nationals in light of the current economic situation in the region, Gulf countries are now considering getting help from foreign nationals in the form of gaining economic favours in exchange for residency status – but not without a price.

Saudi Gov’t Launches Special Residency Scheme to Attract Foreign Investments

In this light, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has announced that expats can now apply for permanent residency in a new program designed to attract foreign investment, as shared in a report by the Business Recorder.

The new scheme, though, does not come without a cost. The special permanent residency status is priced at a whopping USD 213,000 (SAR 800,000), whereas a cheaper alternative offers the same status for up to a year only, which is priced at USD 27,000 (SAR 100,000).

The special residency scheme is aimed at luring wealthy expats as the oil-rich Gulf state seeks to boost income from non-petrol sources.

The scheme will allow expats conduct business without a Saudi sponsor, buy property, and sponsor visas for relatives.

Furthermore, economic analysts claim that the programme will largely benefit wealthy Arabs who have lived in Saudi Arabia for many years without permanent residency or multinational companies seeking to do long-term business in the kingdom.

The decision was approved last month, but the programme has only begun accepting applications last Sunday (June 23) through the government’s official special permanent residency portal.

Other than the fee, applicants must be at least 21-years-old; can provide financial solvency; have no criminal record, and receive a clean bill of health.

As per the PRC, holders of premium residency are entitled to rights and privileges which include:

1) Residence in the Kingdom with his/her family i.e. spouse(s), and children (not exceeding 21 years of age)

2) Visit visas for relatives

3) Recruitment of domestic workers from abroad according to his/her needs

4) Ownership of real estate for residential, commercial, and industrial purposes in Saudi Arabia except for Mecca, Medina and border areas

5) Usufruct rights on real property located in the cities of Mecca and Medina for a period not exceeding 99 years

6) Ownership of private means of transportation and other similar

7) Working at private establishments with the ability to change jobs. This shall extend to family members

8) Exiting and entering the Kingdom at his/her own accord

9) Use of lanes designated for Saudis at the Kingdom’s exit and entry points

10) Engagement in business activities, in accordance with the Foreign Investment Law

In recent years, Saudi Arabia has seen a massive exodus of foreign workers amid rising costs after the government imposed fees on dependents and restricted foreigners from working in certain sectors, to provide job opportunities to more Saudi nationals.

ALSO READ: Saudi Arabia Reaffirms Commitment in Support of Women Empowerment

Manpower Ministry to Rectify Work Status of Over 16,000 Expats in Oman

As the sultanate focuses on including more citizens in the workforce at the expense of foreign nationals, the government is continuously improving its system to create an environment that would limit the number of expat workers to the minimum in industries that have a dire need for their services only.

However, for this to happen, several steps from the national government must be coordinated with various ministries and stakeholders (companies and employers) involved.

Status of Over 16K Expats in Oman to be Reviewed by Ministry

As such, the Ministry of Manpower has recently called on 67 employers owning 1,479 establishments with 8,228 expatriate workers to correct their job status as part of the move to regulate the job market, as shared in a report by the Muscat Daily.

According to the ministry, around 22 employers running 1,100 firms and employing 2,599 expatriates have spoken to its officials to solve the job status of the employees concerned.

The MoM, however, also noted that it has not been able to reach 23 employers owning 862 firms with 5,175 expatriate workers.

Nevertheless, the ministry shared that it will continue to regulate the job market in accordance with the Omani Labour Law through visits to private sector establishments.

In line with this, the MoM said, “We urge all employers to ensure that they comply with the applicable procedures of the labour law. We will take legal action against those found violating the law. We appeal to all institutions to cooperate in this matter.”

The job status of foreign workers in Oman is mainly tied to the issuance of an NOC – wherein if an expat wants to change jobs in Oman they need a release letter from their employer stating that they allowed an expat to seek employment with another company in the Sultanate. It’s important to stay on the good side of one’s employer as a person is generally not allowed to live in Oman if they are not employed. Expat workers must have sponsorship, and that sponsorship ends when employment does. Expats will be required to obtain an alternative visa immediately or they will be staying in the country illegally.

This being the case, the government has also set certain provisions in the law that would protect the rights of foreign workers against being tagged as absconding despite receiving their NOC from their latest employer.

Based on the law, an absconding report cannot be submitted “if the employer has given the worker a letter of no objection to the transfer of the worker’s services to another employer, and then reports the worker absconding before the end of the period granted to him/her, which is 30 days to transfer his/her services to another employer”, and in the case of a dispute between the employer and the employee arising before filing the absconding report.

In the case of companies/employers that fail to comply with the provisions of the labour law or its regulations, they will be suspended from receiving any services from the ministry for a year.

ALSO READ: Oman to Introduce Expat Visa Ban for Senior Management Roles

Dubai Airports Launch Trial Use of ‘Paper-Free Travel’ Biometric ID System

Where technology is cultivated in places like the UAE, residents can expect new innovations that would benefit them in processes that could further be enhanced by digital applications, or in some cases, even artificial intelligence (AI) technology.

And as the UAE government aims to promote the country as a global nation where both residents and guests can enjoy convenient living through the aid of digital processes and systems, sectors such as retail, aviation, and financing, where information processing can easily be transitioned to digital technology, are most likely to benefit the most.

‘Passport-Free’ Travel to be adopted by Dubai Airports

In line with this, Dubai Airports and the Emirates airline are testing plans to replace traditional passport and paper travel documents with biometrics and face recognition, which is expected to significantly increase the ease and speed by which passengers can move quickly from check-in to their aircraft seat, as shared in a report by the Arabian Business.

The new system, which is known as ‘One ID’ has already undergone trial on flights between London and Dubai, and further trials will be held on flights between Dubai and Australia later this year.

According to Dubai Airports CEO Paul Griffiths, “We ran a trial between London Gatwick and Dubai… and we’re now trying to expand that.”

Griffiths added that the trial confirmed the feasibility of the new technology, in which the idea of a single identity applied in different locations works, and that it can be adopted to work globally.

The One ID system will be used across check-in desks, passport control counters, duty-free shops, airport lounges and boarding queues.

“The vision for One ID is a paperless travel experience where passengers can fly around the world safely and securely using only their individual biometric data. This will be achieved using a trusted digital identity, biometric recognition technology, and a collaborative identity management platform accessible to various authorised stakeholders,” explained IATA Director General and CEO, Alexandre de Juniac.

Furthermore, a Dubai Airports spokesperson confirmed that the One ID trials will begin later this year.

At present, the Dubai International Airport holds the title of the world’s busiest international airport and last year its annual traffic surpassed 89.1 million. The airport also managed to reduce waiting times by 28 percent, a feat reportedly achieved thanks to the airport’s introduction of smart gates and an advanced operations centre.

ALSO READ: UAE Announces Charges for New Long-term & Multiple-entry Visas

Saudi Reveals Master Plan for Qiddiya Mega Project, ‘Capital of Entertainment’

With a number of national governments in the Middle East now focusing on non-petrol revenue sources, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has invested on infrastructure and commercial projects that would boost national revenue through tourism, among others.

The move can be seen as part of the kingdom’s effort not only to promote tourism and boost revenue, but also to create new experiences that uniquely highlights Saudi Arabia’s rich culture and traditions, in combination with modern aesthetic designs as well as “green technology.”

Master Plan for KSA’s ‘Capital of Entertainment’ Project Unveiled

Saudi Arabia’s Qiddiya Investment Company has unveiled the master plan for the Qiddiya mega-project, which Saudi officials have introduced as the kingdom’s one-day “Capital of Entertainment,” as shared in a report by Arabian Business.

The Qiddiya mega-project will bring together “the elements for an active, healthy and ambitious lifestyle” and create “a series of pedestrian-oriented spaces that encourage discovery, trial and enjoyment.”

According to Michael Reininger, Qiddiya Investment Company’s CEO, “The people of Saudi Arabia share the universal desire for enriching experiences, and our plan allows Qiddiya to unlock access to these experiences in a new and culturally relevant way, encouraging personal and professional pursuits that foster enrichment.”

The infrastructure design, developed in collaboration with Denmark-based Bjarke Ingles Group, includes a ‘green-belt’ network that will carry visitors throughout the property on roads, bicycle pathways, and walkways.

Situated 45 km from the kingdom’s capital, the 334 sq km site envisions the development of only around 30 percent of the land, leaving the rest for natural conservation purposes.

For his part, Bob Ward, the chairman of the Qiddiya Advisory Board shared that the project will set a new global standard for the seamless integration of visitor-focused experiences and an innovative mix of programme pieces, delivering an unparalleled entertainment destination.

Furthermore, the property is organised around five primary development ‘nodes,’ each with a unique purpose.

For example, the ‘Resort’ core, will include four gated-attractions surrounding a central retail, dining, and entertainment district with a number of hotels.

Nearby this district will be an outdoor venue capable of hosting crowds of between 5,000 and 40,000 visitors, which will also offer skating and skiing facilities for guests.

The project which is set to open in 2022 will also feature Six Flags Qiddiya, along with a separate water-oriented park.

The property will also feature a ‘speed park’ focused on motor sports that will include tracks, showrooms, a driver’s club, as well as a luxury hotel.

ALSO READ: Saudi Arabia Recognized as 1st Arab Country to Become Member of FATF

Here’s What You Need to Know about Qatar’s Social Security System

In terms of living conditions, one of the most important things to consider when working or migrating to a different country is their social security programme. Qatar has been one of the most popular work destinations in the Middle East and the rest of the world among foreign nationals, not only because of the high pay, but also because of the benefits residents get from the government.

To date, Qatar boasts of having the biggest capita per GDP, making it the richest country in the world. And if you’re wondering what it’s like living in the world’s richest country, let’s take a look at their social security system.

5 Things to Know about the Social Security System in Qatar

In this post, we will share some of the social welfare support programmes the Qatari government provides its citizens and expats.

No Financial Duties to Settle.

The Middle East has been an excellent work destination for expats throughout the years, mainly because countries in the region do not impose taxes on the people’s income – which basically means higher take-home pay, minus other expenses, which even the government covers in certain places including Qatar.

To date, the only form of taxes in the Middle East is the value-added tax (VAT), which is comfortably set at 5% in select countries such as Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, the UAE, and soon – Kuwait.

Numerous Welfare Services Offered.

Qatari nationals, as expected, receive the bulk of the welfare services and benefits provided by the government. Among the social services Qataris are entitled to include medical care, child care, pensions, sickness coverage, maternity benefits, and assistance to the unemployed. In some cases, the government gives its citizens free housing and benefits for the disabled.

Limited Benefits for Foreign Nationals.

In contrast to point #2, citizens have it so much better than foreign residents, as you would expect. But the government still extends its support to expats through the use of its medical facilities. However, Qatar is now encouraging companies to provide free medical insurance to their expat employees to lessen the spending burden on the national government.

No Pension Scheme from the Gov’t for Expats.

With very little to no benefit expats are entitled to in terms of welfare help and support, the situation only builds up to the fact that no pension scheme is designed for expats in the country. But it’s not all bad, because for those who are working for an international company, your pension may be sponsored by the corporation you are working for.

Also, if you have a state pension back home, consider keeping it, even if it means that your benefits will be reduced.

Personalize Your Pension Plan thru Various (Private) Channels.

Despite the fact that expats have little social benefits from the Qatari government – in most cases, one’s salary is way above enough to compensate for their needs. This also allows them to set up their own pension, which can be availed through a number of companies in the country.

As in the case in most (if not all) countries in the world, governments do not offer equal benefits to nationals and foreign residents, but they make up for it through other ways such as higher salaries and other privileges in doing business or at work. The important thing, though, for expats is to get their own insurance, especially when they can afford to do so.

ALSO READ: Get to Know What Your Qatar ID Number Means

Now, Residents Can Update Latin Names on Civil ID Cards Online – PACI

This year, the Ministry of Interior in Kuwait announced that it will no longer issue residency stickers on expat’s travel documents. Instead, this will be incorporated on their Civil IDs when they renew their residency status in the country.

However, when this update was implemented, there have been serious problems encountered by expats with their Civil ID card information, as this was filled with serious errors (i.e. spelling, wrong information), which were found to be mainly due to personnel handling, as per the Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI).

Credits: PACI

PACI No Longer Offers Services to Change Latin Names on Civil IDs

Because of this phenomenon, the Ministry of Interior (MOI) has directed the Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI) to stop offering services related to correcting the Latin names of residents, and designed this function to be done by residents online from now on, as shared in a report by the Arab Times Online.

However, the PACI also clarified that it will continue to offer electronic services for Latin names in terms of checking it before printing the civil ID card or after it has been corrected, but will not to make the corrections themselves, as done previously.

The update maintains that the correction of the names will now be done by the immigration departments (Computer Department) in every governorate. Furthermore, the PACI no longer receives requests for correction of names which is done through the automated system.

However, the ministry clarified that the PACI will still accept requests for services to correct an error in the civil card which has already been issued after cross checking with the document issued by the Ministry of Interior.

Since the implementation of Civil ID renewal services back in March, which aims to do away with the residence sticker on the passport, the number of transactions of this type has exceeded 250,000 at a rate of up to 20,000 IDs per day and the IDs were noted to be full of errors committed by the employees of the Interior Ministry.

There were even some residents who claimed that prior to their renewal of Civil IDs, the names on their documents were correct both in Arabic and English, but after the renewal they were shocked to find glaring mistakes and inaccurate details which forced them to visit the immigration departments again and submit requests for correction for which they had to wait in queue for hours.

Some of these residents pointed out that some departments had earlier managed to correct the name after a request was submitted without requiring them to wait for completion of transactions since this was done through SMS notification. However, this process was not standardized across all departments, which led to confusion and more issues in handling these transactions.

Meanwhile, those who wish to correct the names on their civil ID may file the changes through the PACI’s website.

ALSO READ: [LABOUR LAW GUIDE] Understanding the Probation Period in Kuwait

How to Get NOC in Oman

Working in Oman offers great benefits and opportunities, especially for workers who intend to build their career because of the Sultanate’s relatively small size, meaning, there is plenty of work to go around for people who can build a decent work history within their respective fields.

However, as the Sultanate currently limits its acquisition of foreign talents in favour of nationals through its Omanization programme, it pays to note some of the requirements which expats should undergo or take advantage of to remain working in the country despite the restrictions set in place.

[Guide] Getting a No Objection Certificate (NOC) in Oman

In line with this, foreign nationals should be aware of the no-objection (NOC) certificate, which they will need in order to be allowed to continue working in the Sultanate.

An NOC is a document issued by the current employer to their employees in order to allow them to switch to another employer, and therefore continue their work in the country. However, the NOC lets the companies have strong power over their employees.

Since the law has been passed in 2014, it has immediately had an acute effect on the expats already working in the Sultanate of Oman.

For one, the system sets up a power imbalance between the employer and the foreign employee. Many argue that the NOC may not even apply to blue-collared workers, who cannot approach the company’s management regarding the NOC, which is a common set-up in Omani companies.

However, as the law has already been set, please be guided by these steps to get an NOC from your employer:

First and foremost, make sure that your two-year contract has been completed. Otherwise, the company may refuse to give an NOC in Oman ( e.g. in the middle of the contract, getting an NOC is based on the company’s discretion).
Approach the Public Relationship Officer or Human Resource Officer of your company to resign from your post. Follow the procedures stated.
Serve your notice period.
Comply with the requirements needed of you prior to your release from the company.
Once you have settled all the requirements, collect the NOC from the company.

In the event that you are not issued an NOC, you can either return to your own country or continue working for the same company. Do note that the issuance of an NOC is at the discretion of the company, and this decision cannot be influenced or affected by any person/entity outside of the company.

Also, it’s important to understand that you will not be allowed to extend your visa after leaving the country without an NOC. This means that you will be banned to return to Oman for work for two years.

The purpose of the NOC in Oman is to ensure that foreign workers establish a long-time relationship with their employers, as the economy of Oman is affected by the short stay of workers.

Since NOCs can be denied by a company if you are making a loss to the company, you need to become competent in the position you are given, as opportunities for work among expats are being restricted to benefit nationals. And to avoid the ban on your visa, your performance and contributions should be enough to convince the company to give you an NOC.

ALSO READ: Govt Introduces Service Tagging ‘Omanised’ Professions

Saudi Arabia Recognized as 1st Arab Country to Become Member of FATF

With so much going on in the Kingdom as of late in terms of policy reforms, as well as the government’s nationalization programme, it can be said that Saudi Arabia has been steadily making leaps and bounds as a global country.

And to add to its current accomplishments, the Kingdom has also become recognized from being an “observer” member in the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) into a full-fledged member of the global money-laundering watchdog starting this year.

Saudi Becomes is First Arab Country to Receive FATF Membership

The accession came as the FATF celebrated the 30th anniversary of its first meeting held in Paris in 1989. This makes Saudi Arabia as the first Arab country to be granted full membership of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), as shared in a report by the Saudi Press Agency.

The Kingdom was officially admitted into the organization after the group’s meeting in Orlando, Florida, on Friday (June 21), since it was first invited in 2015 to join as an “observer member.”

Saudi Arabia had been a founding member of the MENA arm of the group since November 2004, and the Kingdom’s full membership came after it was reported to have made “tangible progress” and for its efforts in implementing the FATF’s guidelines.

The FATF is the task force responsible for issuing international standards, policies, and best practices to combat money laundering, terrorist financing, and proliferation.

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is an inter-governmental body established in 1989 by the Ministers of its Member jurisdictions. The FATF, as an international organization, aims to set standards and promote effective implementation of legal, regulatory and operational measures for combating money laundering, terrorist financing and other related threats to the integrity of the international financial system. The FATF also functions as a “policy-making body” which works to generate the necessary political will to bring about national legislative and regulatory reforms in all concerned areas.

This development reinforces Saudi Arabia’s neutral position in the ongoing commotion in the region, and assures onlookers where the country’s vested interests are at.

With the kingdom becoming an FATF member, the number of permanent members in the group is now 39.

This is definitely good news for the residents of the Kingdom, because being recognized by an international body that standardizes financial protection and global security speaks volumes of a country’s leadership and political will in keeping with the standards to protect the greater global community.

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